Discover Belgium along the Water

After nearly 10 years of cruising the canals of France, we are thrilled to offer you a new destination in 2025, right in the heart of Wallonia and Flanders. Starting in April 2025, the MS Raymonde will embark on a brand-new route, navigating the Belgian canals for the very first time. 

Meanwhile, the MS Lafayette will take you on a journey through the gems of Northern Europe, with an itinerary stretching from Belgium's capital to the famous Kinderdijk windmills in the Netherlands. 

Belgium, with its extensive network of waterways, provides the perfect backdrop for these two exciting new itineraries. In this article, we highlight some of the most picturesque towns and stunning sites in Belgium that you can discover on our canal barge cruises or aboard an intimate riverboat.

Bruges, the Venice of the North

Nestled in the heart of the Flemish region, Bruges enchants visitors from around the globe with its romantic ambiance, rich history, and medieval architecture. The canals that weave through the city, alongside its cobblestone streets, provide a unique way to explore this charming destination. Whether by boat or on foot, visitors can uncover hidden gardens, countless historic bridges, and medieval facades reflected in the tranquil waters of the canals.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bruges boasts numerous must-see landmarks: the iconic gabled houses, the Grand Place (Burg Square) dominated by the majestic Belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the serene Beguinage, a haven of peace founded in the 13th century.

Craftsmanship plays an important role in Bruges' identity. The city is famous for its lace-making tradition. During your visit, why not explore this ancient craft by visiting one of the lace museums or stopping by a workshop to take home a piece of this cultural heritage?

Bruges also has a rich culinary heritage. Known for its world-famous chocolatiers and local breweries, a visit to the historic De Halve Maan brewery is a must during your stopover in the Venice of the North.

Exploring Bruges feels like stepping back in time, where life slows down, allowing you to savour the beauty and authenticity of Belgium.

Antwerp, Belgium's Second-Largest City

A cultural, economic, and artistic crossroads, Antwerp is globally renowned for its port, the second largest in Europe, and its thriving diamond industry. A key player in global trade, the port also serves as a popular gateway for river and sea cruises, offering visitors the unique opportunity to discover the city from the water. 

Antwerp’s historic center is a testament to its rich past. A maze of cobbled streets and medieval buildings leads to the Grand Place, where ornate guild houses, adorned with statues, line the square. At its heart stands the famous Brabo Fountain, and nearby, the majestic Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, towers above the city.  

Oudenaarde, a Little-Known Gem

Oudenaarde, a small town nestled in the heart of the Flemish region along the River Scheldt, may not be one of Belgium's most famous tourist destinations, but it boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage.

The town is best known for the Battle of Oudenaarde, fought on July 11, 1708, a pivotal moment in the War of the Spanish Succession. In this battle, the Allied forces dealt a crushing blow to the French army, securing control of the Spanish Netherlands and altering the course of the conflict. Today, the battlefield continues to draw history enthusiasts and visitors eager to learn more about this significant 18th-century event.

Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Flemish Ardennes, Oudenaarde is also a popular spot for walkers and cyclists. The nearby Pays des Collines nature park offers a perfect escape, where you can explore local flora and fauna while soaking in the serene views of the surrounding valleys.

This charming town along the Scheldt is brimming with historical landmarks, including the Church of Notre-Dame de Pamele, Marguerite of Parma's house, the Baudouin Tower, and the Town Hall—an exquisite example of Brabant Gothic architecture, featuring a beautifully adorned façade and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed belfry. With over 100 listed monuments, it’s hard to capture them all, but Oudenaarde’s rich heritage ensures there’s always something fascinating to discover.

Brussels, Capital of Europe and City of History

A bustling metropolis and the home of major European institutions such as the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the Council of the European Union, Brussels plays a crucial role in political and economic discussions. However, to reduce this vibrant capital to its European institutions would be an oversight—it is, above all, a city steeped in history.

The historic heart of Brussels, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by Baroque and neoclassical buildings, including two of the most iconic: the Town Hall and the King’s House, which now hosts the Brussels City Museum. The city's diversity will undoubtedly surprise you. Over the centuries, Brussels has been shaped by various cultural influences, including the Burgundians, Habsburgs, and Spaniards, leaving an indelible mark on its architecture and culture. This is exemplified by the statue of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza on Spain Square.

Lastly, no mention of Brussels would be complete without highlighting its deep connection to comic books, which hold a special place in the city's culture. As the birthplace of many beloved comic characters, you’ll find murals across the city paying tribute to icons like Tintin, Spirou, and Lucky Luke.

Mons, Capital of the Province of Hainaut

A shining example of Wallonia's rich heritage, Mons draws numerous visitors with its stunning monuments, museums, and breathtaking landscapes. The city is also renowned for its annual local festival, The Ducasse de Mons, commonly known as Doudou, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. The festival’s highlight is a mock battle on the Grand Place, where Saint George bravely confronts the dragon that once terrorized the region during the Middle Ages.

Discover these towns and many more on our Belgian cruises. Whether aboard an intimate 22-passenger barge or one of our comfortable river ships, explore the beauty and wonders of Belgium from the water with CroisiEurope.

Don’t wait—join us for an unforgettable adventure!